While noting that, “we don’t want to get too far ahead of ourselves,” Shero said that he believes that “if (Staal) wanted to move on, he would have told me already. And he hasn’t told me that.”

Shero said other teams in the NHL have contacted the Penguins and expressed interest in Staal. However, at this point in time Shero is focused on re-signing Staal — not trading him.

Staal enters his final year under contract in Pittsburgh in 2012-13. The Penguins are faced with the task of trying to re-sign him or trade him away for something in return before he hits free agency next summer.

“People read the newspapers and so maybe they think he’s available,” Shero said. “That stuff is all speculation. I have made it clear to every team that has asked. I don’t want to trade Jordan. I’m not listening to offers. I want Jordan here. I want him here for a long time, and that’s what I’m going to try to do.”

Shero addressed some other personnel topics Tuesday as well.

He expects to trade at least one defenseman on the current roster, as the Penguins have nine that will require waivers next season.

He continues to have interest in negotiating a long-term deal with captain Sidney Crosby, though talks are still in the early stages.